New twist revealed in NFL star Antonio Brown's explosive sudden Tampa Bay exit

Following a bizarre sideline outburst yesterday, it was confirmed that controversial wide receiver Antonio Brown had parted ways with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, less than a year after winning a Super Bowl.

But what seemed like a spontaneous tantrum may have been something else entirely.

NFL Network's Ian Rapaport reported today (AEDT) that Tampa's coaching staff had asked Brown, who has been battling an ankle injury, to get back in the game - and he refused.

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Upon telling coaches that he wasn't healthy, the controversial wide receiver was reportedly told to leave - which is what led to him ripping his shirt off and throwing it into the stands before storming out.

Head coach Bruce Arians was asked twice by reporters today (AEDT) if Brown had communicated to him that he was hurt.

"No," Arians said.

"It's pretty obvious what happened. He left the field and that was it."

Despite Brown's history of bizarre behaviour, even he is unlikely to have turned down a million dollars worth of contract incentives, which he would have almost certainly earned either this week or next.

Brown has had a colourful NFL career, littered with controversies - most recently being suspended over a fake vaccination card a few weeks' ago.

But for now, it looks like once again, his NFL career is over.

"It's a difficult situation," quarterback Tom Brady said after the win.

"Everybody should do what they can to help him in ways that he really needs it. We all love him. We care about him deeply. We want to see him be at his best. Unfortunately, it won't be with our team.

"I think everyone should be very compassionate and empathetic toward some very difficult things that are happening."

The backstories and controversies that have ignited feuds involving athletes

The backstories and controversies that have ignited feuds involving athletes